How much do you really know about your health?

Wednesday

Apr 3, 2013 at 12:01 AM

How much time do you spend taking care of your health? What do you consider important when you think of good health? Do you know what preventive measures you should take at different times in your life?

How much time do you spend taking care of your health? What do you consider important when you think of good health? Do you know what preventive measures you should take at different times in your life?

How much do you know about cholesterol? What is cholesterol and what does it do? Cholesterol is a waxy, fat-like substance that comes from two sources. The liver and other cells in your body make about 75 percent of the cholesterol and 25 percent comes from certain foods you eat. Cholesterol is only found in animal products such as meat, eggs and dairy.

With all the advertising about cholesterol medications and threats of heart attack, stroke, etc., it may surprise you to know that cholesterol is not all bad.

The body needs some cholesterol in order to function properly. The body's cell walls, or membranes, need cholesterol and the body uses cholesterol to produce hormones, vitamin D and the bile acids that help to digest fat. However, the body only needs a small amount to meet it needs. Too much can lead to health problems such as coronary artery disease, or CAD.

Do you know what your cholesterol level is? You can have it checked for free at the Prime Time Health Fair.

Do you take any medicine? Perhaps you take a lot of medications. Do you have more than one doctor prescribing medicine? It is very important to keep track of all the medicines that you are taking and to take them appropriately.

Medicines that are not taken the way they should be and for the proper conditions can become a serious health hazard instead of a help. There will be CVS pharmacists available to do "brown-bag" consultations about your medications and answer questions you may have about your meds.

And what about your diet? Many of us try to eat proper meals and do pretty well. The problem often comes with the snacks. Choosing healthy foods is just as important at snack time as it is at mealtime. Healthy snacks can add fiber and nutrients to your diet without unwanted calories. They can give you an energy boost during the day and prevent you from overeating at meals.

So forget the bag of chips and reach for an apple, pear, or handful of raisins. You'll get extra fiber, vitamins and minerals, all for about 50 calories. If plain fruit isn't filling enough, try topping your apple or pear with a tablespoon of peanut butter or ounce of sliced cheese, which will add protein and about 100 calories to your snack (still fewer than that bag of chips that is low in nutrients and high in calories and salt).

Be sure to see your doctor as needed and get the tests recommended for prevention and management of any health problems. If you are confused about Medicare insurance and who pays for what, we will also have counselors on hand to assist.

From diet and exercise to medication and doctor visits, there are so many things to be aware of if you wish to stay healthy and active. Oh, yes — how do you pay for all of this?

From preventive care to personal care and Medicare, there is a lot to know. Join us to learn more about the health issues facing older adults today. Representatives from various agencies and businesses in Monroe County will be present with information about their services.

The 12th annual PrimeTime Health Fair will be held from 9 a.m. to 1 p.m. April 11 at East Stroudsburg United Methodist Church, 83 S. Courtland St., East Stroudsburg. The fair will be held in fellowship hall at the rear of the church (elevator available at front entrance).

Admission is free, as are pharmacist consultation, health screenings and refreshments.